A comparative analysis of cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma and cutaneous chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

The morphologic distinction between cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma (CMZL) and secondary cutaneous involvement by B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) can be difficult. Both entities can show very similar architectural patterns of involvement in the skin and not uncommonly, the skin can be the first site of presentation of B-CLL in the elderly. We reviewed biopsies of 13 patients with cutaneous B-CLL and 14 patients with CMZL to compare their histologic and immunohistochemical features.

Protein contact dermatitis: allergens, pathogenesis, and management.

Protein contact dermatitis is an allergic skin reaction induced principally by proteins of either animal or plant origin. The clinical presentation is that of a chronic dermatitis, and it is often difficult to differentiate between allergic contact dermatitis and other eczematous dermatoses. One distinguishing clinical feature is that acute flares of pruritus, urticaria, edema, or vesiculation are noted minutes after contact with the causative substances.

Topical corticosteroid-induced adrenocortical insufficiency: clinical implications.

Topical corticosteroids are often prescribed for the treatment of dermatological disorders. However, systemic adrenal insufficiency may result from their overuse. Current literature detailing both laboratory and clinical findings was analyzed, in the hopes of evaluating the health-risk potential of topical corticosteroids in producing adrenal insufficiency.

Exploration of "alternative" and "natural" drugs in dermatology.

Objective: To review some of the promising natural remedies within dermatology to explore their potential clinical benefit in supplementing conventional drugs.

Data Sources: MEDLINE searches from January 1966 through October 2000 and Science Citation Index searches from January 1974 through October 2000 were conducted.

Study Selection: Primary importance was given to in vivo and in vitro controlled studies, the results of which encourage further exploration.

Irritant contact dermatitis: is there an immunologic component?

Irritant contact dermatitis (ICD) describes a multifactorial disease resulting from exposure to occupational irritants. Though often characterized as a localized reaction, there are at least 10 forms of ICD, several of which possess systemic involvement. The exact mode of irritant action in ICD is not completely understood, but recent literature suggests that an immunologic-like component may be present.